SWAMPSCOTT — A new pub called Dockside Pub is coming to town at 286 Humphrey Street, which was previously the location of Zestfriendz. Owners Andrew Ingemi of Swampscott, his brother Alex Ingemi of Danvers, and their father Arthur Ingemi of Salem are planning for the pub to be open by June 1.
Andrew said they decided to open a pub in Swampscott because they saw a need for one in town.
“It just made sense after the Zestfriendz came up for sale,” Andrew said. “I got to know the owners over time and they wanted to sell to me and they liked the idea of having a pub themselves, so it just worked out.”
Zestfriendz was a bakery and cocktail bar for over a year until it closed in late December 2022.
“We want to thank everyone who supported us through this journey. We feel fortunate to have decided to do this in a community where we were able to make so many connections and fulfill our mission – ‘Pairing unique flavors and local people’ – Thank you,” a Facebook post from ZestFriendz said.
Dockside Pub will be seafood-based, with items such as boiled lobster and fried clams on the menu, Andrew said. They will also serve burgers, steak tips, and more. The plan is to also have a to-go window to sell fried seafood and chowder, so those at Fisherman’s Beach can stop by and grab food easily.
Andrew said the interior and exterior will have a completely new look by June 1.
“They’re going to be extensive renovations,” he said.
The Ingemis were approved for their liquor license by the Select Board on March 1.
“It’s going to be a comfortable pub type atmosphere,” Andrew said at the meeting. “A restaurant you don’t have to go get dressed up to go.”
At the meeting they told the board they may consider serving breakfast at the pub eventually.
The family has also owned a pub in Salem since 2012 called The Village Tavern.
“My family and our employees are very excited about this opportunity,” Andrew said. “We’re super happy to be able to give Swampscott a pub that everybody can enjoy themselves at.”
